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Pakistan capable to thwart any aggression challenging its sovereignty: Mushahid
January 21, 2024

Chairman Senate’s Standing Committee on Defence Senator Mushahid Hussain Sayed says Pakistan has the capability, skill and will to thwart any aggression challenging country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

In an exclusive interview with PTV tonight, he said that Iran's attack came as a rude shock, which created a unique crisis scenario for Pakistan. He said the incident, unexpected and originating from a friendly neighbor, posed a significant challenge for Pakistan's leadership to defend sovereignty without escalating the situation.

He said that political and military leadership of Pakistan resolved the issue of Iran’s attack on the country's sovereignty superbly using effective diplomacy, coordination and media.

The Chairman of Senate’s Standing Committee said Pakistan's swift and effective response showed the world that people, and the leadership of Pakistan have strong sense of responsibility and maturity in handling crises.

Replying to a question, Mushahid Hussain Sayed said Pakistan is a peace-loving country and we always become victim of circumstance. He said we reject the notion of might is right, but we believe in right is might.  He said the message following the Panjgur incident is loud and clear in the region and beyond that anybody who would cross the red line will be responded in similar manner.

Recognizing the efforts of the military leadership following Iran's attack, the chairman highlighted the careful and calibrated military message sent to Iran and other nations within a remarkable 72-hour timeframe. He stated that this strategic move successfully diffused tensions, showcasing Pakistan's maturity in crisis management.

Regarding Pak-Iran historic relations, Mushahid Hussain Sayed recalled Iran's pivotal support to Pakistan during the 1965 and 1971 wars against India. He emphasized that Iran was the first country to recognize Pakistan, highlighting its consistent support on the Kashmir issue.

Mentioning the importance of Pak-Iran mutual cooperation, the chairman referred to the 2013 Pakistan-Iran Security agreement, underlining the necessity for coordination, particularly in the face of common challenges such as terrorism.

Regarding Pak-Iran bilateral relations, Mushahid Hussain Sayed reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to maintaining fraternal and cooperative relations with Tehran.  He said both the brotherly countries should utilize their diplomacy and military channels to restore their fraternal ties and enhance cooperation.

He said one miscalculation or irritant should not destabilize the strong bond that spread over decades. The Chairman urged that Pakistan and Iran should play their respective role for common interests under SCO and ECO.

To another question, he said China's role in Iran is positive for us as it is our friend. Pakistan and Iran should seize the opportunity of geo-economic conversion being supported by China.  He also termed Beijing's role pivotal in promoting peace in the region.